New course has Shepherd students excitedSan Jacinto News- Times - November 2008

SHEPEHRD -- Shepherd High School’s Family and Consumer Sciences department is offering a new course this year, Food Production, Management and Services. The course is designed to meet the increasing interest in culinary arts and working in the restaurant and food service industry. Current statistics reveal that other than the government, the hospitality industry is our nation’s leading employment opportunity. More than 12 million people are employed in the restaurant industry. To insure that our students have every chance to become successful, Shepherd ISD is proud to prepare them for the challenges of tomorrow’s careers. The class is composed of 10 students who are working to meet the course expectations. Students are currently studying the nationally recognized ServSafe curriculum and will have the opportunity to receive a ServSafe certifi cate upon successful completion of the test. They will also have the opportunity to receive a Texas Food Handlers Permit. In addition, many “hands on” skills will be gained, giving students who complete the course work a defi nite edge over others who attempt to enter the food service industry. The curriculum for this program was designed by the Texas Restaurant Association in conjunction with the Texas Education Agency. The administration of Shepherd ISD is very supportive. A donation from the Shepherd Economic Development Council has helped to jump start the program. The donated funds were used to purchase supplies, uniforms and support membership in the youth leadership organization Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). The students and teachers greatly appreciate this support. Students from Shepherd High School are grateful for this new opportunity and look forward to many new opportunities through this program. The enrollment is expected to grow as others witness the excitement and success of the current students.